Jeff Axtell

Lead Pastor

Pastor Jeff Axtell and his wife, Jen are locals to Sacramento. Both Jeff and Jen have a heart for community; relationships are a priority. They have an ever growing family; Hope and Joey Hecocks, Caleb and Tori Axtell, and Andrew. Jeff holds a Master of Theology degree from Western Seminary and has been in ministry since high school, serving as a youth leader, Elder and Pastor.

He and Jen enjoy hosting events at their home with friends and guests. Mentorship and Discipleship are at the heart of their ministry, passing along the many biblical wisdoms that God has shown them over the years of service.

Josh Biedel

Associate Pastor

Josh has been a part of the New Hope family for over two years now, and loves it tremendously. He has a zeal for the Church and to build it up strongly; he passionately yearns to serve others via equipping the saints and by worshipping God together.

He has previously served in churches from children’s ministries all the way up to seniors. Josh’s primary background was as a teacher in public education for 10 years from middle school up through college, as well as being a vice principal at a classical high school. His educational background consists of a B.A. in History (CSUS), a B.A. in Theology (Portland Bible College), a M.A. in Teaching (University of Portland), and a M.A. in History (CSUS). He also currently serves as a professor at Theos Seminary online.

Dr. David Nystrom

Teaching Pastor

Dave is committed to equipping our church family with a deep understanding of God’s Word. He leads our Foundations Theology Program, where he is passionate about guiding members through sound biblical teaching and theology. With a heart for biblical literacy and spiritual growth, he helps our community explore the truths of Scripture, cultivating a firm foundation of faith that strengthens our walk with Christ.
He holds a PhD in New Testament Theology and Roman Social History, with a focus on the ancient Mediterranean and Near East.

With over 30 years of experience in academia, Dr. Dave has served as a professor, the Academic Vice President at William Jessup University, and the Provost and Senior Vice President at Biola University. He is the author of several books and numerous articles.

Ordained in the Evangelical Covenant Church, Dave is dedicated to helping our church grow in its understanding of Scripture and deepen its commitment to Christ.

Jessica and Taylor Deatherage

Director of Young Adults Ministry

Jess is a full-time staff member at New Hope, co-leading the Young Adults Ministry with her husband, Taylor, and serving as our Event Coordinator. She is deeply passionate about fostering spiritual maturity among her peers. Jess holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Sac State and is currently pursuing a Master's in Counseling Psychology at William Jessup University.

Hope and Joey Hecocks

Anchor Youth Leaders

We are passionate about seeing junior and senior high students fall deeply in love with Jesus and set standards that guide them toward living godly lives. As the youth leaders of New Hope, we are dedicated to walking alongside students—connecting with them weekly and organizing events that encourage them to grow in their faith. Our goal is to help them build a deeper relationship with Christ and spark a genuine excitement for diving into God's Word.

Rob and Lynn Bivens

Worship Leader and Bookkeeper

Rob and Lynn have been serving at New Hope longer than they have been married. They have a passion for serving and building the New Hope community. Rob serves as the Worship Leader as well as a church elder. Lynn is on Staff as the bookkeeper.

Sara Aranda-Lawson

Church Secretary

Sara and her husband Bradley have been at New Hope for over 20 years, as well as Sara serving on staff, they also serve in other ministries.

Raphael "Bubba" Harris

Elder

Dave Axtell

Elder

Ryan Hale

Elder